144MHz FM TRANSCEIVER
IC-μ2A/AT/E
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
ICOM announces the debut of a versatile newcomer in the Amateur radio field - the IC-µ2A/AT/E pocket-sized handheld transceiver. Exceptionally flexible for a variety of uses yet surprisingly compact and easy to handle, the IC-µ2A/AT/E is a complete, high performance integrated handheld - the beneficiary of the very latest in ICOM technical know-how and state-of-the-art integrated engineering.
To fully enjoy the use of your new IC-µ2A/AT/E handheld, please study this instruction manual thoroughly prior to operation. Also, feel free to contact your nearest authorized ICOM Dealer if you have any questions relating to the operation of this transceiver.
UNPACKING
The picture shows accessories for the IC-µ2A AT U.S.A. versions.
Accessories included with the IC-µ2A/AT/E:
- 1. Flexible antenna
A diagram shows the following items:
- Flexible antenna
- Handstrap
- Battery pack
- External microphone/speaker unit
WARNINGS
Avoid using the transceiver under the following conditions:
- In places subject to excessive heat or cold.
- In places subject to excessive dust.
- In places subject to excessive humidity, including bathrooms.
- In places subject to excessive vibrations.
SECTION 1 FEATURES
- ULTRA COMPACT DESIGN: The IC-µ2A/AT/E measures only 58mm wide by 140mm high by 29mm deep (projections not included). This small, light-weight, ultra compact handheld transceiver comes in handy for use any time, whether outdoors, in your car, or at home.
- EASY FREQUENCY ENTRY: Frequency entry can be easily performed with the top panel Digital Touchstep switches.
- 10 MEMORY CHANNELS: Though ultra compact in design, the IC-µ2A/AT/E has a total of ten programmable memory channels.
- EASY-TO-READ DISPLAY: A new Liquid Crystal Display with soft green illumination gives the user excellent operating visibility even in dark environments. This LCD indicates the operating frequency as well as the memory channel number.
- POWER SAVER DESIGN: All circuits were designed using low power dissipation techniques with a special power saver circuit. The power saver circuit functions if no signal is received or no switch operation is performed for more than 30 seconds, and requires only 1/4 current flow during regular receiving conditions.
SECTION 2 CONTROL FUNCTIONS
2-1 TOP PANEL
Diagrams illustrate the top panel controls. Key controls include:
- (1) ANTENNA CONNECTOR: Connect the supplied flexible antenna. CAUTION: Transmitting without an antenna may damage the transceiver.
- (2) FREQUENCY DISPLAY: Shows the current operating frequency, memory channel number, and S/RF level functions. It includes:
- (A) FREQUENCY INDICATOR: Shows the current operating frequency.
- (B) 10MHz DIGIT INDICATOR: Shows the 10MHz digit of a frequency.
- (C) S/RF LEVEL INDICATOR: Indicates signal strength and RF power output level with a bar. The power output level meter functions only as a relative output meter. (LOW power: 3 segments appear; HIGH power: All segments appear)
- (D) MEMORY CHANNEL: Indicates a memory channel number.
- (3) TRANSMIT INDICATOR [TX]: Lights up while transmitting.
- (4) POWER/VOLUME CONTROL [VOL]: Rotate clockwise to turn the transceiver ON and increase the audio level.
- (5) CHECK SWITCH [CHK]: Allows the operator to monitor the transmit frequency when the duplex mode is selected while pressing this switch.
- (6) SQUELCH CONTROL [SQL]: Sets the squelch threshold level. Rotate this control fully counterclockwise to turn OFF the squelch function, and clockwise to raise the threshold level.
- (7) MEMORY CHANNEL UP/DOWN SWITCH [M CH]: Push either upward or downward to change the selected memory channel.
- (8) DIGIT UP/DOWN SWITCHES: Used for frequency setting.
- (A) 1MHz DIGIT UP/DOWN SWITCH: Push either upward or downward to change the 1 MHz digit numbers.
- (B) 100kHz DIGIT UP/DOWN SWITCH: Push either upward or downward to change the 100 kHz digit numbers.
- (C) 10kHz DIGIT UP/DOWN SWITCH: Push either upward or downward to change the minimum frequency step of each version.
- (9) SUBAUDIBLE TONE ON/OFF SWITCH [TONE] (IC-µ2 AT version): Slide to switch the subaudible tone encoder ON and OFF when using the duplex mode.
- (10) TONE CALL SWITCH [CALL] (IC-µ2E version): Push to transmit the 1750 Hz tone for accessing repeaters.
2-2 FRONT AND SIDE PANEL
- (11) LOCK SWITCH [F.LOCK]: This switch prevents accidental frequency and memory channel changes.
- (12) INTERNAL MICROPHONE: This microphone operates when the transceiver is transmitting. It will not operate if an external microphone is connected.
- (13) EXTERNAL MICROPHONE JACK [MIC]: The optional IC-HM9 SPEAKER-MICROPHONE can be connected here. The internal microphone does not function when an external microphone is connected. Diagrams show circuitry for dynamic and electret condenser microphones.
- (14) EXTERNAL SPEAKER JACK [EXT SP]: Connect an 8Ω external speaker to this jack. The internal speaker will not operate if an external speaker is connected.
- (15) INTERNAL SPEAKER: This speaker operates when the transceiver is receiving. It will not operate if an external speaker is connected.
- (16) [DTMF KEYS]: Keys on this pad are used for accessing a repeater or making an auto-phone-patch.
- (17) BATTERY CHARGE INDICATOR: Lights up while the battery pack is charging.
- (18) BATTERY CHARGER JACK: This jack accepts the output plug of supplied wall chargers or a 13.8 V DC power source.
- (19) PUSH-TO-TALK (PTT) SWITCH: Press this switch to begin transmitting.
- (20) LIGHT SWITCH: Press this switch to turn ON and OFF the backlight for the FREQUENCY DISPLAY. The backlight has a timer function and will turn OFF automatically unless switches are being used.
- (21) BATTERY PACK RELEASE BUTTON [RELEASE]: Push this button upwards and slide the battery pack out to remove it from the transceiver.
2-3 REAR PANEL
- (22) RF POWER OUTPUT SELECTOR SWITCH [HIGH] [LOW]: Selects the RF output power. Set to [HIGH] for 1 W and [LOW] for 0.1 W.
- (23) SIMPLEX/DUPLEX SELECTOR SWITCH [+DUP] [SIM] [-DUP]: Selects either the simplex or duplex mode.
- (24) CHARGER TERMINALS: Used for battery charging with supplied chargers.
SECTION 3 PRE-OPERATION
3-1 BATTERY PACK INSTALLATION
(1) Using the BP-22 BATTERY PACK: The supplied BP-22 BATTERY PACK is rechargeable and can be easily slipped ON or OFF the transceiver.
Recharging can be done using the supplied wall charger, the optional IC-CP1 CIGARETTE LIGHTER CABLE, or the optional BC-50U/E DESK BATTERY CHARGER. Charging takes approximately 15 hours with the wall charger or IC-CP1, and about 1 hour with the BC-50U/E.
A table lists suitable battery chargers for different transceiver models and regions.
(2) Battery pack note: To prevent reduced capacity due to the battery memory effect, discharge the pack through normal use and then charge fully if capacity seems lower than new.
3-2 ANTENNA CONNECTION
Insert the connector on the flexible rubber antenna into the ANTENNA CONNECTOR on the top panel.
CAUTION: Transmitting without an antenna may damage the transceiver.
3-3 FOR OUTDOOR USE
1) Attach the handstrap to the projecting metal loop on the side of the transceiver.
2) An optional MB-20 BELT CLIP is available.
SECTION 4 GENERAL OPERATION
4-1 SETTING FREQUENCY
1) Turn power ON.
2) Push either FREQUENCY SETTING SWITCH upward or downward. The 10 kHz and 1 MHz DIGIT UP/DOWN SWITCHES have a digit carrying function, allowing continuous frequency movement when held down.
Diagrams illustrate frequency setting for IC-µ2A/AT and IC-µ2E versions.
4-2 RECEIVING
1) Turn power ON and adjust the [VOL] CONTROL to a suitable listening level.
2) Adjust the [SQL] CONTROL until the noise is quieted. Turning it fully counterclockwise turns off the squelch.
3) Set the desired frequency using the FREQUENCY UP/DOWN SWITCHES.
A diagram shows the S/RF LEVEL INDICATOR displaying received signal strength.
4-3 TRANSMITTING
1) Turn power ON.
2) Select output power using the RF POWER OUTPUT SELECTOR SWITCH ([HIGH] for 1W, [LOW] for 0.1W).
3) Select either simplex or duplex mode:
- Simplex [SIM] mode: Transmit and receive frequencies are the same.
- Duplex [+DUP] or [-DUP] mode: Transmit and receive frequencies are normally different by 600 kHz. Refer to SECTION 5-1 for setting offset frequency.
4) Press the [PTT] SWITCH to begin transmitting and speak into the microphone. The red [TX] INDICATOR lights up, and the RF INDICATOR appears on the FREQUENCY DISPLAY showing relative output power.
Diagrams show high and low power output indicators on the display.
SECTION 5 FUNCTIONS OPERATION
5-1 SETTING OFFSET FREQUENCY
The offset frequency for duplex operation is preset for 600 kHz, but can be changed.
1) Turn power OFF.
2) Set the DUPLEX/SIMPLEX SELECTOR SWITCH to either [+DUP] or [-DUP] position.
3) Push and hold the [LIGHT] SWITCH and turn the power ON. Then, release the [LIGHT] SWITCH. The offset frequency appears on the display (e.g., 600 kHz).
4) Set the desired offset frequency using the DIGIT UP/DOWN SWITCHES. The frequency can be set up to 39.995 MHz (or 39.9875 MHz for the IC-µ2E version).
5) Push either the [PTT] or [CHK] SWITCH to set the offset frequency and return to normal operating mode.
5-2 DTMF OPERATION (IC-µ2 AT ONLY)
If you need DTMF tones to access a repeater or make an auto phone-patch, follow this procedure:
1) Push keys the desired number of times while pressing the [PTT] SWITCH. The transceiver will maintain transmit mode for about one second after the first number has been entered.
A DTMF keypad layout is shown.
5-3 SUBAUDIBLE TONE OPERATION (IC-µ2 AT ONLY)
The built-in subaudible tone encoder allows access to repeater stations that require subaudible tones.
1) Turn the [TONE] SWITCH ON to activate the subaudible tone encoder function.
2) The tone frequency can be changed using the tone frequency selector switches (P1-P6). A detailed SUBAUDIBLE TONE FREQUENCY TABLE is provided, listing frequencies and corresponding switch positions (1 for ON, 0 for OFF).
Note: When the P7 SWITCH is set to ON, the tone function is always ON regardless of the [TONE] SWITCH position.
5-4 TONE CALL OPERATION (IC-µ2E ONLY)
The IC-µ2E is equipped with a 1750 Hz tone generator for accessing repeaters.
1) Press the [TONE] SWITCH on the top panel.
2) The tone transmits while the [TONE] SWITCH is pressed. Most repeaters require tones between 1 and 3 seconds to be opened.
5-5 MEMORY CHANNEL OPERATION
The IC-µ2A/AT/E is equipped with ten memory channels. Procedures for memory reading and writing are as follows:
(1) Memory reading:
1) Turn power ON.
2) Push the [M CH] SWITCH.
3) Push the [M CH] MEMORY CHANNEL UP/DOWN SWITCH either upward or downward to select the desired memory channel. The displayed frequency can be changed by any of the DIGIT UP/DOWN SWITCHES.
(2) Memory writing:
1) Turn power ON.
2) Select the memory channel you wish to store the frequency in using the [M CH] MEMORY CHANNEL UP/DOWN SWITCH.
3) Set the desired frequency by pressing any of the DIGIT UP/DOWN SWITCHES on the top panel. The displayed frequency will be stored in the selected memory channel automatically.
The last displayed frequency will be stored in the memory channel.
5-6 LOCK FUNCTION
This function prevents accidental frequency and memory channel changes.
Slide the [F.LOCK] SWITCH to the [ON] position to activate the lock function and to the [OFF] position to release the function.
SECTION 6 CAUTIONS AND MAINTENANCE
6-1 CAUTIONS
- DO NOT disassemble the transceiver as it may cause trouble.
- DO NOT use any chargers other than the suggested ones.
- Avoid the use of strong cleaning agents such as benzine or alcohol as they may damage the surfaces.
6-2 MALFUNCTIONS
If malfunctioning occurs, stop using the transceiver immediately and consult the following troubleshooting guide.
(1) Unlocked PLL:
If a small "U" appears on the FREQUENCY DISPLAY, the PLL circuit is unlocked. This may be caused by an exhausted battery pack. Check the battery first. At this time, the transceiver is muted and no signals are transmitted.
(2) Resetting internal CPU:
Occasionally, the FREQUENCY DISPLAY may display erroneous information. When this occurs, reset the internal CPU:
1) Turn power OFF.
2) Set the SIMPLEX/DUPLEX SELECTOR SWITCH to the [SIM] position.
3) Hold down the [LIGHT] SWITCH and turn power ON. The CPU is now reset.
CAUTION: After resetting the CPU, all programmed memory channels will be cleared and must be reprogrammed.
(3) CPU backup battery:
The IC-µ2A/AT/E uses a microprocessor with a backup battery to retain memory information during power interruptions. The usual life of the backup battery is one to two years. Monitor the backup battery and replace it if display malfunctions are repeated. Battery replacement should be done by an authorized ICOM Service Center.
NOTE: If the internal backup battery is exhausted, transmit and receive functions will still operate normally, but frequencies cannot be memorized.
SECTION 7 TROUBLESHOOTING
| PROBLEM | POSSIBLE CAUSE | SOLUTION |
|---|---|---|
| Power does not come ON when the power switch is turned ON. | The battery pack is exhausted. | Replace the battery pack with a new one or recharge it. |
| No sound comes from the speaker. | Squelch setting is turned too far clockwise. External speaker or earphone is in use. |
Turn the [SQL] CONTROL counterclockwise until noise can be heard. Turn clockwise so the noise just disappears. Check if the external speaker plug is inserted properly or if the external speaker cable is cut. |
| No or low power output. | RF POWER OUTPUT SELECTOR SWITCH is at the [LOW] position. The battery pack is exhausted ([TX] INDICATOR does not light). |
Set the switch to [HIGH] position. Replace the battery pack with a new one or recharge it. |
| The receive mode functions properly and your signals are transmitted, but you are unable to make contact with another station. | Improper offset frequency or input/output frequencies of the repeater. The transceiver is in SIMPLEX mode (when desiring DUPLEX mode). |
Set the proper offset frequency. See page 17 for information. Set either to the [+DUP] or [-DUP] positions. |
SECTION 8 BLOCK DIAGRAM
A block diagram illustrating the transceiver's internal components is provided.
SECTION 9 SPECIFICATIONS
9-1 GENERAL
Frequency coverage: Varies by model and region (e.g., 144.000 ~ 147.995 MHz for U.S.A. version receiver).
Frequency resolution: Specified in MHz.
Antenna impedance: Specified.
Usable temperature: Specified.
Frequency stability: Specified.
Current drain at 8.4V DC: Specified.
Dimensions (with BP-22): Specified.
Weight: Specified.
9-2 TRANSMITTER
- Output power: Specified (e.g., 1W HIGH, 0.1W LOW).
- Emission mode: Specified (e.g., 16K0F3E).
- Modulation system: Specified.
- Max. frequency deviation: Specified.
- Spurious emission: Specified.
9-3 RECEIVER
- Receiving system: Double-conversion superheterodyne.
- Intermediate frequencies: 1st 16.9MHz, 2nd 455kHz.
- Modulation acceptance: Specified.
- Sensitivity: Less than 0.25μV (–12dBμ) for 12dB SINAD.
- Squelch sensitivity (Threshold): Less than 0.1μV (–20dBμ).
- Spurious response rejection ratio: More than 60dB.
- Audio output power: More than 0.25W at 10% distortion with an 8Ω load.
MEMO
Please record the serial number of your IC-µ2A/AT/E transceiver below for future servicing reference:
Serial number: _________________________
Date of purchase: _________________________
Place where purchased: _________________________
